ATTORNEYS AT LAW

Domestic Violence Protection Orders

June 12, 2012

North Carolina men and women who are victims of domestic violence can seek protection and help from Wake County Family Court in a number of ways. A legal document named a “domestic violence protective order” (DVPO) is also called a restraining order, or a 50B. This type of order requires the abuser to stop the abuse or face legal consequences. Filling out an order can be a confusing process, and it is important to make sure it is done correctly. A partner who has been the victim of domestic violence can seek the help of NC family law attorneys to help them file this important document.

A DVPO offers civil legal protection from domestic violence to both women and men victims in NC. In North Carolina, domestic violence is defined as when someone with whom you have a personal relationship physically injures or threatens to injure you, among other things. A DVPO offers several different options to help the partner who has been abused. Wake County attorneys can help to make sure the order offers certain written protections from the abuser while also increasing the victim’s safety and control of their home and living arrangements. A DVPO can also protect a victim’s children or pets.

The process of getting a DVPO can often occur in two parts in Wake County family court. The judge may decide that an immediate protective order is needed. This will later be replaced by a more permanent DVPO. Victims of domestic violence should consult with Wake County attorneys to make sure their legal rights are taken care of in court during the process of getting a DVPO.

Abusers who violate a DVPO can be subject to immediate arrest by the police. It is important for victims of domestic violence to keep copies of the DVPO on hand and in places where they may frequent, such as work or school. North Carolina recognizes DVPOs from other states in the US, but victims of domestic violence who move into NC should work with NC family law attorneys to ensure that they are fully legally protected.